Obituary of Helen Elizabeth Engelmann

Helen Elizabeth Engelmann, 94, passed away of pancreatic cancer on September 3, 2019 in Olympia, Washington, her home of 47 years. She was born November 8, 1924 to Hubert E. and Ethel R. (Stockton) Terwilleger on a homestead near Great Divide, Colorado. At age one, her father built a covered wagon on a truck bed and she, her parents and two of her six siblings drove to Olympia with whatever would fit in the truck.

Helen graduated from Olympia High School in 1942, and married Ralph Henry Sundberg on January 15, 1943. Ralph passed away in 1982, and Helen then married Charlie Engelmann in December 1985. She worked as a secretary at Washington Middle School from 1967 to June 30, 1982.

Helen was a loving, strong and independent woman. She loved spending time with her family. She also loved going to the Red Wind Casino; she was able to be there for the last time three days before her passing. In addition, she enjoyed bridge, and was a member of Capital City Newcomers Bridge Club.

She is survived by daughters, Nicolina Musslewhite, Susan E. Carpenter (Denny), and Lori J. Bailey (Alan); stepdaughters, Elizabeth “Beth” Kartman and Mary Maxon (Johnny); daughter-in-law, Becky Brewer; 14 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren (with three on the way); and five great-great grandchildren. She was predeceased by both husbands; son, Ronald Ralph Sundberg; parents; and all her siblings.

Private family gathering.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS: Memorial donations may be made to Washington Talking Book and Braille Library (identify for the purchase of books), 2021 9th Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 (or online by clicking HERE); or the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, P.O. Box 515, Northampton, MA 01061-0515 (or online by clicking HERE).

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